National Instruments PXIe-5603 RF Signal Downconverter Module

The PXIe-5603 is an RF Signal Downconverter. The manufacturer of the NI PXIe-5603 is National Instruments. The PXIe-5603 Downconverter comes in two versions: one without pre-amp and another with pre-amp. The function of the NI PXIe-5603 is to convert the RF frequency to a lower level so the digitization process can be performed.  

This RF Signal Downconverter is not a stand-alone module. It is a part of the PXIe-5665 Vector Signal Analyzer or VSA. The NI PXIe-5665 is made up of three modules: the PXIe-5603 RF Signal Downconverter, the PXIe-5653 Analog Signal Generator, and the PXIe-5622 IF Digitizer. The PXIe-5653 Oscilloscope generates analog signals. The frequency of these signals is lowered by the PXIe-5603. These low frequency signals are then digitized by the PXIe-5622. The maximum center frequency of the PXIe-5665 VSA using a PXIe-5603 is up to 3.6 GHz. The PXIe-5665 hardware can be configured using the Measurement & Automation Explorer tool (MAX).

The NI PXIe-5603 features an SMA female connector. This RF Signal Downconverter supports both AC and DC coupling. The PXIe-5603 Downconverter can safely be operated under DC input voltages up to ±25 VDC. If current signals with high transients pass through the input connector of the NI PXIe 5603, it can harm the Downconverter permanently. The maximum level of the IF output of the PXIe-5603 Downconverter is +22 dBm. It is important that the resolution and temperature stability of the NI PXIe 5603 are not less than the NI PXIe 5622. The PXIe-5603 has a power requirement of 1.7 A at +3.3 VDC, and 1.8 A at +12 VDC. It has a LO IN maximum safe voltage of 25 VDC and a LO OUT maximum safe voltage of 0 VDC. The NI device weighs 32.0 oz, and measures 8.5 x 1.6 x 5.1 in. in physical dimensions. It has a recommended operating temperature range of 0 °C to 55 °C and a storage temperature range of -41 °C to 71 °C.

PXIe-5603 Obsolete Status has been announced by National Instruments, but the RF Signal Downconverter will still be available for purchase and repairs by Apex Waves.